But today, the shelter behavior staff pointed me toward this little ball of fluff, an “owner surrender” who was having a tough time adjusting to life in a kennel.

Secret weapon: those big brown eyes

Introductions were slow, but after a bit of trial and error, I discovered he likes peanut butter treats. He devoured the few I tossed his way and eventually became brave enough to eat out of my hand. A few moments later, he accepted scratches behind the ears, and a few moments after that, he tentatively placed his paw on my leg.

Getting braver

And so I admit: I’d become smitten with this timid, uncertain pup who wants so badly to trust. He never got so comfortable that he bounced around like a typical 11-month-old, but considering his progress in 20 minutes, I’m confident that in time he will…